Carol Duncan Esau, 62, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026 surrounded by loving family and friends after fighting a courageous battle with cancer.
Carol is survived by her brother Ron Duncan (Debbie) along with nieces Ryanne Duncan and Paige Duncan-Libby (Keillor), all of Salem, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Richard (Buck) and Wanda Duncan.
Carol moved through the world with an unshakeable optimism. After graduating from Salem High School in 1982 and Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!) in 1986, she enjoyed a successful career at Northern Telecom, Progress Software and Verint. She was most known for her leadership and genuine care for her employees around the globe.
Carol spent twenty-five years of her life in Pittsboro, North Carolina. She kept a very active social life upon moving to Pinehurst and retirement, enjoying book club, Bunco, concerts, mahjong, golf and bible study.
Carol’s unwavering faith sustained her throughout her life and many benefitted from her servant heart. She was known for her kindness and dedication to her friends and community.
Special thanks to Dr Michael Sundborg, Dr. Chasse Bailey-Dorton, Taylor Galford and Tammy Haywood of FirstHealth Cancer Center and Michelle Bruntz of FirstHealth Hospice.
Carol loved celebrating in all its forms and we ask that you honor Carol in your own way. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date.
Memorials can be made to Pittsboro United Methodist Church PO, Box 716, Pittsboro NC 27312.
Online condolences may be made at
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst.
